Counselor’s Corner
As our children begin school they are going to be engaging
in the return to some sense of normalcy. By returning to school, you should see
their well-being increase. This week, I am writing to highlight some things
that are going to happen that will probably boost your child’s happiness. First,
participating in the routines and structure of the school day will be comforting
and reassuring for children. Whatever your situation, check out the virtual
page your child is learning on, and notice the things that happen day after
day. Research shows that having rhythmic, repeated experiences help people feel
safe and good. In particular, I think the daily getting together at Morning
Meeting will be a welcoming, warm ritual that should really help your children.
Another good thing that will be happening is that students
will be getting back together socially. When children re-connect with important
people in their lives such as teachers and friends, it’s a good thing. Having a
strong social network just makes us healthier.
The last thing I am learning about that helps kids during a
crisis is having some time to reflect about what just happened. School assignments
will be asking your kids to write about what their summer was like and how they
feel about remote learning/hybrid learning formats. When kids are asked to share
their experiences and think more deeply about their feelings, the benefit to
them is that they will become more relaxed. The more self-reflective we are
about what we are going through the better.
I look forward to re-connecting with everyone!
Sincerely,
Mrs. Ann O’Hearn, School Counselor
RISD Elementary
